Cathedral Lakes Trail

Yosemite National Park, California

Cathedral Lakes are a popular hiking destination along the John Muir Trail in Tuolumne Meadows. Just about anyone with a little gumption can reach one or both of these alpine lakes, though the average person might be tired after the trek to both. The trail, frequented by horses and backpackers as well as day hikers, follows an even gradient. Most of its ups and downs are relatively gentle, and there are plenty of large trees, rocky dome spires, and even spots of lightning damage to look at.

Cathedral Lakes are a popular hiking destination along the John Muir Trail in Tuolumne Meadows. Just about anyone with a little gumption can reach one or both of these alpine lakes, though the average person might be tired after the trek to both. The trail, frequented by horses and backpackers as well as day hikers, follows an even gradient. Most of its ups and downs are relatively gentle, and there are plenty of large trees, rocky dome spires, and even spots of lightning damage to look at.